GOP’s Do-Nothing Congress

The Republican-led 112th Congress has proven to be one of the least productive Congresses in recent memory. In 2011, Republicans passed 165 bills, and 62 were signed into law. In 2007, when Democrats took back the majority and a Republican president was in the White House, more bills were passed and more than double the number of bills were signed into law. Republicans have also had fewer votes and Committee mark-ups and hearings. Republicans have also spent fewer days in session – just 132 days so far compared to 152 days in session in 2007.

Data provided by CRS, through November 30, 2007 and 2011
Number of days in session for 2011 is through December, 15, 2011.